Find a builder near you?

Roof Repair 101: Signs That You May Need a Roof Replacement

In reality, most people don’t think about their home’s roof until some issues arise. It’s, in fact, out of their mind most of the time. Unfortunately, the more you neglect your roof’s condition, the more problems you’ll have in the future. Remember, doing nothing about it can cause major and costly complications for the rest of your house and your family. This is the reason why regular inspections are necessary to determine the condition of your roofing system. The good news is there are a plethora of signs that will tell you to replace your roof. Let’s have a run through of some of these signs.

1. Your roof is probably over 20 years old.

First things first, you need to ask yourself how old your existing roof is. By asking yourself that question, you’ll then have a better idea as to the available lifespan of your roofing structure. Although the condition depends upon the materials and the climate in your area, most roofs have a life expectancy ranging from 20 to 25 years. However, if your roof is over 20 years old, it may be a clear indication that you should need a roof replacement. Also, don’t wait for a long time before you get your roof inspected. Under normal situations, you should examine your roof annually.

2. You can see daylight.

Another sign that you may need to replace your roof is the daylight peeking through it. You just need to look up at the roof boards in your attic and check whether you can see light. If you take this lightly, you’ll certainly be in trouble. The more gaps and cracks your old roof has, the more money you’re going to spend for your utility bills. Thus, if you want to save a huge amount of money and avoid leaks in the future, call a roof repair company to perform some inspection and maintenance.

3. Your shingles are curled or buckled.

When you notice that your shingles are damaged, this is a sure sign that you need a roof replacement as early as possible. Make sure to note all curled or buckled shingles. Also, don’t forget to examine the granules in your gutters for some problems because the presence of one indicates that your shingles are already beyond their life expectancy.

4. There is moss, mold, or mildew growth.

Too much moss, mold, or mildew in your roof can eventually damage the overall structure. Its accumulation can be the result of some condensation problems, which will affect the roof of your home. If you spot some of these unwanted house plants, it’s best to call for a professional as some types of moss can be very dangerous.

5. Your flashing is worn down.

Essentially, the flashing is considered one of the best materials to protect vents, skylights, and chimneys from rain and other poor weather conditions. Hence, you better start checking these areas to see whether there are cracks that can cause leaks later on. Moreover, if your flashing is made of cement or tar, it’s about time to have it replaced with a metal flashing system for durability and resistance reasons.

6. There are signs of humidity.

Your roof may need adequate attention once your ceilings start to show stains and even crumble pieces. Rotten boards, slippery areas, and the smell of moisture at the lowest part of your roof are some of the clear signals that you require a roof replacement.

7. You have a leaking roof.

Leaks are some of the common problems of a roof. Unfortunately, a minor leak can become a big one if it’s not seriously taken care of. Although a leaking roof can be repaired from time to time, the costs, on the other hand, continues to increase as time goes by. Hence, regular roof inspection and even a possible roof replacement may be needed to keep your home intact and safe.

Conclusion

We hope you find all the information in this article useful in identifying signs that your roof needs a replacement. While you can see a lot from the ground level if there’s a damage, it’s still advisable to seek professional help from a reliable roof repair company and get your system thoroughly inspected. This way, you know you’re getting quality advice that can help you come up with the best decision for your roofing needs.